4 Different Types of Medication Used for Chronic Pain

If you suffer from chronic pain, you may find relief by taking certain prescription medications. Some types of medicine may be safer for you than others, so it’s important that you talk with your doctor and notify him or her of any special medical conditions that you may have before taking any of medications. These four medications are among the best for relieving chronic pain.

Celebrex

This popular prescription pain medication is often taken to treat pain that’s associated with arthritis. The medicine works by inhibiting the production of the COX-2 enzyme, which is known to contribute to chronic pain. The enzyme is also responsible for much of the inflammation that can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Unlike other pain medications that inhibit the production of the COX-1 enzyme and can upset the stomach, Celebrex only targets the COX-2 enzyme and allows the stomach to function normally.

Tylox

If your chronic pain is moderate to severe in intensity, Tylox could work for you. As WebMD states, this medicine contains an opioid (narcotic) pain reliever along with oxycodone. Tylox also contains the non-opioid pain reliever known as acetaminophen, which is found in the over-the-counter drug Tylenol. Tylox has been shown to change the brain’s perception of pain so that the body is not as sensitive to it.

Neurontin

Neurontin may work well for your pain management even if you don’t experience seizures. In many cases, this anticonvulsant medicine is effective in relieving nerve pain caused by shingles. Doctors may also prescribe Neurontin to treat chronic lower back pain. Even though researches aren’t sure exactly how this drug works to decrease pain, evidence suggests that Neurontin produces an analgesic effect by blocking a specific calcium channel in the brain. As a precaution, your doctor will likely start you out on a low dose of the medicine to see how well your body tolerates it.

Elavil

Even though Elavil is usually prescribed to treat depression and other mood disorders, it can also be effective in treating chronic pain. According to Practical Pain Management, this drug is able to alter the body’s chemistry and ease physical discomfort. Elavil is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) and can balance the levels of neurotransmitters and serotonin in the brain. This medication can bring further relief by putting the body and mind into a more relaxed state and promoting better sleep.

Any of these medications can possibly relieve your chronic pain and improve your quality of life. By following the medication directions and following up with your doctor regularly, you’ll likely experience positive results.